Logging Safety: A Field Guide

Introduction

Logging has consistently been one of the most hazardous industries in the United States.

95 workers were fatally injured in the U.S. logging industry in 2006, resulting in a fatality rate of 85.6 deaths per 100,000 workers. The fatality rate for all occupations in the U.S. in 2006 was 4.0 deaths per 100,000 workers.

40 workers were killed in New York State while performing tree work, including logging, between 2002-2007.

17% of logging employee fatalities are machine related accidents.

40,000 logging injuries occurred in the U.S. in 2007. Total medical costs approached $300 million.

The information in this booklet reviews the key elements of logging hazards and the OSHA Logging Standard requirements and suggests some preventive measures that can help loggers and other tree workers to reduce injuries and work safely.